Designing for legacy

The London 2012 Games has provided a fantastic opportunity to showcase the quality and innovation of UK design, architecture, construction and engineering.

Design has been central at every stage – from planning and procurement through to construction – and the key challenge for the ODA has been to deliver high-quality design and the most accessible Olympic Park ever.

Working with a range of stakeholders, from community groups to statutory bodies and partners within the design community, the ODA has delivered venues that combine flair with functionality, and were designed with legacy in mind.

The 3,000-tonne sweeping, curved steel roof of the Aquatics Centre is an excellent example of an innovative and iconic design creating engineering challenges. However, the contractors on site have shown that these challenges can be met with stunning results.

Engineering also played a major part in the designs for the temporary venues, and venues with temporary elements, to ensure they could be quickly and efficiently removed after the Games. Construction on the Park has changed London’s skyline forever.

The Park will provide a stunning backdrop for the Games and leave a design legacy for east London that will last long after the Olympic and Paralympic Torches have left east London.